Eric Sohlgren serves as the Executive Pastor of The Gate. As an experienced church and business leader, he oversees administration and is active in leading, training, preaching, music, planning, and communications.
Before becoming a pastor, Eric had extensive experience as a human resources executive and an attorney specializing in employment and church law. He has argued church cases before the California Supreme Court and other courts.
A gifted musician (woodwinds), songwriter, and producer, Eric has released three albums and a Christmas single of original worship music through his music ministry, Sonbranch Music. The most recent album released in 2026, Radiant, features Gate musicians and singers. He also produced an album for David DeRaita, a gifted singer-songwriter who serves on The Gate’s music team. All of this music is available on streaming services worldwide.
Eric has been married to his wife Paula since 1992. He has one daughter and a friendly McNab Shepherd named Fletch who takes Eric on long walks.
He loves The Gate because of the solid Bible teaching, the authentic worship music with exceptionally talented musicians, and the genuine relationships among a group of believers who truly love one another.
Fun facts about Eric are that he really likes pickled herring and taking long walks in the San Bernardino Mountains with Fletch, but not at the same time.
